Dynamics of Branch and Stem Apical Growth in the Progenies of Plus Pine Trees (Pinus sylvestris L.)

Abstract

The relationship between the characteristics of the linear growth of branches and stems was studied, as well as the possibility of distinguishing between various Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) genotypes. The objects of research were experimental plantations of the half-sib progenies of pine plus trees aged 10–11 years. The annual increments of the stem and differently oriented branches were measured. Correlation, regression and data analysis methods developed by the authors were used. The time dynamics of the obtained values were studied by comparing the regression line slopes describing the interrelation of axial increments and by analysis of the frequency spectra of the Integral Parameter of Characters Sequence applied earlier. The analysis of the obtained results has shown the existence of a significant relationship between auxiblast linear growth within the two adjacent years and a weak interrelation of the characteristics of branch and stem morphogenesis. The possibility of distinguishing Scots pine half-sib families by comparing the dynamics of branches and stem apical growth is described.